Civil Engineering Senior Technician Apprenticeship Standard ST0046

Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate in Civil Engineering

Delivery will be day release over three years

Unit structure:

Core Mandatory Unit 1: Construction Design Project (Pearson-set)

Core Mandatory Unit 3: Science and Materials

Specialist Mandatory Unit 4: The Construction Environment

Specialist Mandatory Unit 8: Mathematics for Construction

Specialist Mandatory Unit 17: Civil Engineering Technology

Specialist Mandatory Unit 19: Principles of Structural Design

Optional Unit 20: Site Supervision and Operations

Optional Unit 21: Geotechnics and Soil Mechanics

More Than Just a Job – A Well-Rounded Apprenticeship Experience

Our Civil Engineering Senior Technician Apprentice doesn’t just develop technical skills—it’s built around a well-rounded learning journey to help you thrive in the workplace and beyond. The programme includes three integrated modules, designed to support your professional growth from day one:

Study Skills Module

Build a strong foundation for success with essential academic and professional skills.
This module covers:

• Time management and organisation
• Research and report writing
• Communication and presentation techniques
• Using digital tools for construction and learning

Whether you’re returning to study or learning on the job for the first time, this module helps you develop the confidence and habits needed to succeed.

Apprenticeship Skills Module

Understand what it means to be a successful apprentice—and a valued employee.
This module includes:

• Understanding the apprenticeship standard and End-Point Assessment
• Professional behaviours and workplace expectations
• Reflective practice and personal development planning
• Embedding British Values, Safeguarding, and Prevent principles

You’ll learn how to manage your responsibilities, track your progress, and make the most of your apprenticeship experience.

Project Module

Put your learning into action with real-world projects aligned to your job role.
This module gives you the opportunity to:

• Tackle practical construction-based tasks
• Demonstrate cost management, planning, and communication skills
• Build a professional portfolio that supports your End-Point Assessment
• Work collaboratively while showing initiative and independent thinking

These projects help bridge the gap between learning and doing—making sure you’re fully prepared for the demands of the industry.

A Smarter Way to Learn and Work

This modular approach ensures that every apprentice is equipped not only with technical know-how but also with the professional skills needed to grow, adapt, and stand out in a competitive industry.

Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC in Civil Engineering

The HNC is assessed through a series of coursework-based assignments. These are designed to test your understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of quantity surveying. Assessment methods typically include:

• Written assignments and reports
• Practical tasks and scenario-based problem solving
• Project work
• Presentations and group work
• Technical drawings and cost plans
• Each unit is graded as Pass, Merit, or Distinction, and you’ll complete a set number of core and specialist units over the 3-year programme.

End Point Assessment (EPA)

The EPA is the final stage of your apprenticeship and confirms that you’re fully competent in your role. It’s conducted by an independent End Point Assessment Organisation and includes two key components:

1 Work-Based Project with Report and Presentation

You’ll complete a real-world project related to your day-to-day responsibilities.

• Submit a detailed written report
• Deliver a professional presentation to showcase your findings, approach, and outcomes
• Demonstrates your ability to apply knowledge and solve real problems in a construction setting

2 Professional Discussion (Supported by Portfolio)

A structured interview with an assessor, based on your portfolio of evidence built during the apprenticeship.

• Reflects your development of Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviours (KSBs)
• Allows you to discuss your contributions to projects, your decision-making, and how you’ve met the standard’s expectations

Grading

You must pass all three components to successfully complete the apprenticeship. Final grading is awarded as:

• Pass
• Distinction

Entry Requirements

We welcome applications from individuals with a passion for construction and a desire to build a career in quantity surveying or estimation.

Typical entry requirements include:

• A minimum of 32 UCAS Tariff points
• Achieved through one or more of the following:
  • BTEC Extended Diploma, Diploma, or Subsidiary Diploma
  • Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
  • One A Level in a relevant subject (e.g. maths, science, geography)

No Traditional Qualifications? We Still Want to Hear from You!

At UCDon, we’re committed to widening participation and creating pathways into education for people from all walks of life.
If you don’t meet the standard academic requirements but have relevant industry experience or have been out of formal education for some time, we’ll still consider your application.

Each application is reviewed individually, and we’ll provide advice and guidance to help you understand your options.

Key Information:

• Minimum age: You must be 18 or over at the time of enrolment.
• September 2025 intake: Enrolment starts week commencing.
• Applicants under 21: Must have a minimum of 32 UCAS points to meet entry requirements. Not sure what your qualifications are worth? We can help you calculate your UCAS points.

Ready to start your journey into the world of Civil Engineering? Apply now or get in touch for personalised guidance.

Successful completion of the apprentice can lead to progression onto Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Civil Engineering. Or alternatively progression to a Degree Apprenticeship